University of Michigan Hosts First-Ever Cannabis Science Symposium

For years, cannabis was considered nothing more than a mindless “drug” that had no place in the world of education. If anything, the plant was considered a deterrent to learning, and depending on the particular institution, it could result in some pretty serious punishment if found on a student.

Well, it’s safe to say times have changed, as the United States continues to employ an increasingly progressive approach when dealing with cannabis. Now, it looks like one of the country’s most prominent university is set to do what no other institution has done before—host the first ever cannabis science symposium.

The First-Ever Cannabis Science Symposium

The University of Michigan will welcome a bevy of intellectuals, including doctors, researchers, and scientists, at the first-ever cannabis-related educational speaking event.

The symposium is set for Saturday, September 29, 2018, at 10 a.m. at the Ross School of Business’ Robertson Auditorium.

Although Michigan legalized medical marijuana back in 2008, many in the industry believe the state is behind the curve. Especially, in terms of education about the many medicinal benefits of the plant. In addition to their prevalent medical marijuana industry—which could potentially see many of its dispensaries shut down this winter, due to a recent emergency rule change adopted by the state—the state is also widely expected to legalize recreational cannabis in the fall. A November 6th voter ballot initiative will determine whether or not the state decides to move forward with the endeavor.

With all the moving parts of Michigan’s incumbent marijuana laws, University of Michigan School of Nursing senior Juan Aguirre told All About Ann Arbor that now is the time to make cannabis education a priority.

“Unfortunately for cardholders, U.S. medical and nursing schools fail to provide a comprehensive teaching of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) or cannabis science,” he said. “Michigan is expected to legalize adult use cannabis on November 6, 2018, which will hopefully make public health education regarding cannabis use a number one priority for our state’s government.”

One of the main issues plaguing Michigan’s MMJ program, ironically enough, is the fact that it does not sponsor medicinal cannabis research. This, in turn, creates the need for privately funded endeavors.

Green Wolverine Student Organization Hosts

The symposium itself is being run by Green Wolverine, a student organization focused on entrepreneurship within the burgeoning cannabis sector. It’s founder, Adam Rosenberg, a business student at Ross, started the group in 2017. He told All About Ann Arbor that his club gives students a platform to discuss the many facets of the still-growing industry.

“I founded Green Wolverine to create a credible platform for students to learn about the cannabis industry and network with like-minded peers,” Rosenberg said. “The Ross student club attained 184 members within the first year, and the organization has grown to six chapters in four states as a nonprofit corporation. In addition, the scope of our educational focus has broadened beyond business opportunities to include policy and science.”

Some notable speakers will include Debra Kimless, M.D., the cannabis medical advisor at Pure Green, Stephen Goldner, J.D., the inventor of liquid methadone, and Dr. Daniele Piomelli a director at the Institute for the Study of Cannabis, amongst others.